There was a tense moment in the Senate on Wednesday after a heated exchange broke out between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole over procedural rules.
The disagreement erupted during plenary while the Votes and Proceedings of the previous sitting were being read.
Clash over Senate procedure
Trouble began when Oshiomhole raised a point of order, prompting Akpabio to remind him that such interruptions are not allowed at that stage under the amended Standing Orders.
Despite the warning, Oshiomhole continued, leading Akpabio to call on Senator Orji Kalu to clarify the rule. Kalu backed the Senate President, insisting that no point of order could be entertained at that point.
Tensions escalate on the floor
As the exchange intensified, Chief Whip Tahir Monguno also stepped in, cautioning Oshiomhole to comply or risk disciplinary action.
Akpabio later issued a direct warning: “If you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate.”
The session eventually continued, with lawmakers adopting the Votes and Proceedings after a motion was moved and seconded.
Fresh rule amendment sparks controversy
The clash comes shortly after the Senate amended its Standing Rules, a move that has drawn attention ahead of the 2027 elections.
Under the new provisions, only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately before nomination will be eligible to contest for principal leadership positions.
This effectively limits eligibility for key roles such as Senate President and Deputy Senate President to returning lawmakers from the current assembly.
Implications for future contenders
The amendment narrows the field for leadership positions in the incoming 11th National Assembly, excluding first-time or non-consecutive senators from contesting.
Lawmakers say the change is aimed at strengthening parliamentary tradition and enforcing ranking within the Senate.
The development has added another layer to ongoing political realignments, as attention gradually shifts toward 2027.